Mini Santa Hat Strawberry Cheesecakes are an adorable, festive treat that’s perfect for the holiday season. These bite-sized delights combine the sweet, tart flavor of strawberries with a creamy cheesecake filling and a mini Oreo cookie “brim” to complete the look. Not only are they a visual showstopper, but they also offer a delicious combination of flavors and textures that will please everyone at your holiday gathering.

Ingredients

12 large strawberries
8 oz cream cheese, softened
1/2 cup powdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
1 cup whipped cream
12 mini Oreo cookies

Directions

Cut off the tops of the strawberries and hollow out the centers using a small spoon.
In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, powdered sugar, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
Gently fold in the whipped cream until well combined to create a fluffy cheesecake mixture.
Transfer the cheesecake filling into a piping bag and pipe it into the hollowed-out strawberries.
Top each strawberry with a mini Oreo cookie to form the “hat” of the Santa.
Refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the cheesecake to set.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 12
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Berry Variety: While strawberries are the perfect choice for the Santa hat effect, you can try using raspberries or blackberries as the base for a different flavor profile.
Different Cookie Base: Swap out the mini Oreo cookies for mini shortbread or gingerbread cookies for a new twist.
Flavored Cheesecake Filling: Add a bit of lemon zest or cinnamon to the cheesecake mixture to enhance the flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: These Mini Santa Hat Strawberry Cheesecakes should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating: There’s no need to reheat these, as they’re best served chilled. Simply take them out of the fridge about 10 minutes before serving if you prefer them slightly less cold.

10 FAQs

Can I make these in advance? Yes, you can prepare these a day ahead. Just make sure to store them in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Can I use frozen strawberries? Fresh strawberries are best for this recipe, but you can use thawed frozen strawberries if needed.
What can I use instead of Oreos? Mini cookies like shortbread, vanilla wafers, or ginger snaps work well as a substitute for mini Oreos.
How long will the cheesecake filling last in the fridge? The cheesecake mixture can last for about 2-3 days in the fridge. However, the strawberries may soften over time.
Can I use store-bought whipped cream instead of making my own? Yes, store-bought whipped cream can be used, but be sure to use one with a light, fluffy texture for the best results.
What if I don’t have a piping bag? You can use a Ziploc bag with the tip cut off to pipe the filling into the strawberries.
Can I make these without powdered sugar? Powdered sugar gives the cheesecake filling its smooth consistency, but you can use regular sugar if necessary. Just make sure to mix it thoroughly to avoid any grittiness.
Can I add a different flavor to the cheesecake mixture? Yes! You can add extracts like almond, peppermint, or orange to customize the flavor.
Are these gluten-free? Yes, as long as you use gluten-free cookies or omit the cookies entirely, the cheesecake filling is naturally gluten-free.
Can I serve these at room temperature? It’s best to keep them chilled, but they can be served at room temperature for a short time if preferred.

Conclusion

Mini Santa Hat Strawberry Cheesecakes are an easy and delightful holiday treat that’s sure to impress your guests. With their festive appearance and creamy filling, they’re perfect for holiday parties, family gatherings, or any festive occasion. Plus, they can be customized to fit your tastes, making them a versatile addition to your holiday dessert table. Enjoy these delicious bites of holiday cheer!